Loneliness in emerging adulthood: A cluster analysis of psychological risk and protective factors.

Abstract

Loneliness is a complex phenomenon associated with significant effects on the quality of life and mental health of emerging adults. The objectives were to assess the behavioral profiles of emerging adults based on anxiety, depression, purpose in life, emotional regulation, and perceived social support, and to compare differences in loneliness according to the resulting behavioral profiles. A sample of 376 individuals aged 19 to 29 was evaluated. The study identified three loneliness profiles among emerging adults. The first group, characterized by high social support and purpose in life, exhibited lower levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. In contrast, the second and third groups, with low social support and greater use of emotional suppression, showed higher levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The inverse relationship between purpose in life and loneliness highlighted the potential protective function of a strong sense of purpose. Findings emphasized the need for tailored interventions to improve mental health and strengthen social support networks.